Celebrating Africa Day

What better way to unite a diverse school community than through eating, dancing and dress? This is how African culture best express themselves.

Africa Day is a day to celebrate the rich and diverse culture and history of our people and our continent. It is an opportunity for Africans from all walks of life to come together in unity.

What is Africa Day all about?

Africa Day is celebrated every year on 25 May. It is an opportunity to celebrate African diversity and success and to highlight the cultural and economic potential that exists on the African continent. Africa Day celebrations acknowledge the progress that Africans have made while reflecting upon the common challenges we face in a global, regional and local context.

Where does it come from (OAU)?

The origin of Africa Day comes from 1963 during the Congress of African states, in which 30 representatives from different countries met in Ethiopia, Addis Ababa in the fight against colonialism and apartheid. The OAU designed a flag to represent all African countries and there are 54 stars which represent each country on the continent. What is so special about this flag is the fact that there are no borders dividing the countries. We are one people, one Africa.

How did CityKidz celebrate?

We celebrated by embracing the diverse dancing, food and clothing. The Grade RR, R and Grade 1 learners did a dance to Thula Thula. The Grade 2 and 3 learners did a dance off. The Grade 4 and 5 learners did the Zulu gumboot dance. The Grade 6 and 7 learners did a cultural dance competition with the following cultures:

• isiZulu
• SeSotho
• Nigerian
• XiTsonga

A celebration would not be complete without some food. The Grade 2 – 7 learners could order some yummy boerewors rolls and hot chocolate. The Grade RR, R and Grade 1 learners could order half a boerewors roll, a Zoom juice and a marshmallow.

It was a fantastic day getting to know one another on a cultural level.